Stonington recreation administrator resigning

Stonington — Town Recreation Administrator Joe Mendonca Jr. has informed the town that he will resign on Sept. 12.

Mendonca’s departure after six years marks the fifth time in nine months that a high-ranking town employee has left for a new job or retired.

Director of Finance Maryanna Stevens stepped down this month after 11½ years to become the director of finance in Waterford. She followed Town Engineer Larry Sullivan, who left after 7½ years to take a job with Norwich Public Utilities in February; Public Works Director Joe Bragaw, who left after 13 years to take a similar position in East Lyme in November; and Tax Collector Gisela Harma, who retired in March after 17 years.

In his resignation letter to Human Services Manager Leeanne Theodore on Monday, Mendonca said his decision to resign was made “after long and careful consideration.”

“I want to express my sincere gratitude for a rewarding employment experience with the entire Human Services staff and with you personally. The decision to pursue another opportunity was not an easy one. However, it is right for me at this time as I work toward fulfilling my personal and professional goals,” he wrote.

He added that in his final weeks, he will work to wrap up projects, assist in preparing for upcoming programs and turn over his responsibilities as smoothly as possible.

“He’s been a pleasure to work with and to have him as part of our team,” said Theodore. “We wish him well.”

Mendonca said Wednesday afternoon that he will be going to work for G-Form, which manufactures protective gear for athletes. He will be their grass-roots manager for soccer.

“It’s a great opportunity I had to take advantage of,” he said.

Mendonca said he will continue to coach the Waterford High School boys soccer team as well as be involved with Southeast Premier soccer and his family business, the Mendonca Soccer School.

Director of Administrative Services Vin Pacileo said the town will advertise for applicants for the job on the weekends of Sept. 6-7 and Sept. 13-14 with applications due Sept. 12. The minimum salary for the job is $49,196 with mid-level salary of $56,953.

First Selectmen Ed Haberek did not respond to an email seeking comment about Mendonca’s departure.